Small Group Travel Blog: Expert Travel Tips, Destination Guides & Tour Advice

Planning an overseas adventure? Whether you're flying to Paris, Lima, or Munich, saving money on international flights can make a big difference. The Traveling Professor shares expert tips to help travelers get the best value when booking airfare—without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

1. Always Book Flights Directly with the Airline

When it comes to international travel, skip the third-party sites like Expedia, Orbitz, or Kayak. Booking directly through the airline ensures better customer service in case of delays, cancellations, or flight changes. Airlines prioritize direct customers and may not provide support if you booked through a travel site. Already have a flight in mind? Visit www.flight.info to check flight schedules, aircraft details, in-flight amenities, and more.

2. Be Flexible with Routes and Airports

International airfare pricing can be unpredictable. Connecting flights or starting your journey from a nearby city could save hundreds of dollars. On a recent Traveling Professor tour to Paris, a direct flight from JFK to Paris cost over $1,000. But starting in Boston, with a connection through JFK on the same plane, dropped the fare significantly. Use nearby airports and alternative routes to find the best deals.

3. Buy the Middle Seat for Extra Comfort

Looking for more space without paying for Business Class? If you're traveling as a couple, consider booking the aisle and window seat in a 3-seat row—then purchase the middle seat too. Often, it's cheaper than upgrading to Premium Economy. Pro tip: You may even be able to use miles or points to reserve that extra seat.

4. Ignore the “Best Day to Book Flights” Myth

Many travelers still believe that Tuesday or Thursday is the cheapest day to book flights. But the truth is, there's no universally "best" day to buy airfare. For international travel, the sweet spot for booking is usually around 90 days before departure.

5. Round-Trip Flights Are Usually Cheaper Than One-Way

Here’s a surprising airfare trick: one-way international flights often cost more than round-trip tickets. A one-way coach seat from New York to Paris might run $3,300, while a round-trip ticket could be as low as $730. This pricing strategy is especially common with major carriers like American, United, Delta, and British Airways.

6. Search Alternate Airports for Better Deals

Big savings often come from thinking beyond your local airport. For example, a direct flight from JFK to Lima might cost $866, while starting at LaGuardia and connecting in Miami could reduce the fare to $635. Flying to Munich? Departing from Boston instead of Philadelphia could save over $700.

Final Tip from The Traveling Professor:
Always compare routes, consider nearby airports, and think creatively. A little flexibility can go a long way in finding the best international airfare.